Leif Ove Andsnes: Grieg Lyric Pieces

This landmark album was recorded with Leif Ove Andsnes performing on Grieg’s own 1892 Steinway piano at the composer’s Troldhaugen home in Bergen. Out of Grieg’s original 10 sets of miniatures, Andsnes picked out 24 pieces that were played in an order that creates a sort of a cycle with an aesthetic arch that spans Grieg’s compositional career. The featured pieces represent a musical homecoming for the pianist who grew up playing Grieg’s Lyric Pieces, and for Andsnes the works have a unique sense of intimacy and range of feeling. The recording goes to the very centre of Andsnes’ perception of himself as an artist. The Lyric Pieces represent intimate communication and a wide selection of sonic colour, masterfully conveyed by Andsnes’ interpretations.